Available Positions

Chief Estimator

Core Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating team: Provide leadership, coaching, and mentorship to ensure the team delivers high-quality estimates that meet project deadlines and budget constraints. Work closely with the Director of Estimating to establish and maintain departmental standards.
• Develop and implement standardized estimating procedures: Establish and maintain robust estimating processes and methodologies, ensuring consistency and accuracy across all projects.
• Oversee the estimating process for all projects: Manage the complete estimating lifecycle, from initial pre-construction services to final bid preparation, for both Bid-Build and Conceptual Design Development projects.
• Analyze project plans and specifications: Conduct a thorough review of project plans, specifications, and other bid documents to ensure a complete understanding of scope and requirements.
• Prepare detailed and accurate estimates: Develop comprehensive estimates that consider all project costs, including materials, labor, equipment, subcontractors, and project contingencies.
• Identify and manage project risks: Proactively identify and assess potential project risks, developing strategies to mitigate their impact on cost and schedule.
• Maintain and manage historical cost data: Oversee the curation of a comprehensive historical cost database, leveraging it to inform future estimates and improve cost forecasting accuracy.
• Master a variety of estimating software: Utilize advanced estimating software to perform quantity takeoffs, generate cost breakdowns, and create professional bid packages.
• Collaborate with internal teams: Work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and other internal stakeholders to ensure estimates reflect project requirements and align with overall project goals.
• Maintain proficiency in industry trends and best practices: Stay current on industry trends, construction methods, and cost estimating best practices, continuously improving the efficiency and accuracy of the estimating process.
• Prepare and present estimates to clients: Articulate complex estimates to clients in a clear, concise, and professional manner, fostering trust and confidence during the bid proposal process.
• Contribute to continuous improvement: Continuously analyze performance and identify opportunities to enhance estimating practices, promoting innovation and cost-effectiveness.

A strong candidate has the following skills and qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in construction estimating, with a proven track record of success in leading estimating teams and delivering accurate estimates for complex projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in both Bid-Build and Conceptual Design Development project delivery methods.
• In-depth knowledge of construction costs, materials, labor rates, and industry standards.
• Proficiency in advanced construction estimating software (e.g., OnCenter, D4, Site Development and Utility Software Tools, Proprietary Software Solutions, MS Suite).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve cost estimating discrepancies.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Proven leadership qualities, with the ability to motivate, coach, and mentor a team.
• Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and maintain a high level of accuracy.
• Strong work ethic, self-motivated, and a team player.

Embraces Smoot Construction’s core values of Character, Humility, Integrity, Pride, and Performance